1st North East Geology and Mining Ministers’ Conclave held at Chumoukedima

Assam CM for judicious use of NE mineral resources

HT Bureau

GUWAHATI, Oct 31: Chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday attended the first North East Geology and Mining Ministers’ Conclave in presence of Union minister for Mines, Coal and Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi at Chumoukedima in Nagaland on Monday.

Speaking on the occasion, Sarma said that the North Eastern region of the country is very rich in mines, minerals and other natural resources.

However, with the right mix of technology and proper planning the region will be in a position to utilise its full potential in this sector.

Referring to Odisha which has made significant progress using the resources extracted from mines, the chief minister said that the mineral resources of the region should be judiciously used to expedite the rate of development.

Sarma also sought cooperation and support of the Union Coal, Mines minister Pralhad Joshi for Assam to draw the right kind of roadmap for the prudent utilization of its mineral resources.

The chief minister said that the proposed four lane road connecting Kohima, Dimapur and Karbi Anglong once completed will usher in new momentum of growth and development.

He also said that in the field of unconventional and renewable energy sources, the Prime Minister’s target of green energy generation by 2035 would lead to reduction of environmental pollution to a great extent.

Sarma said that the conclave will give a new dimension for the growth of the mines and minerals sector in the region. He also hoped that the Union minister for Mines and Coal will take special steps for the implementation of the proposals charted in the conclave. He, at the same time, welcomed the decision of the ministry for holding the next conclave in Guwahati.

Chief minister Nagaland Neiphiu Rio, minister of Mines and Minerals Nandita Gorlosa, MLA Taranga Gogoi and other senior officers of state and Central governments were present at the conclave.